Startup Originals Team
In a significant action to curb the dissemination of explicit material online, the Indian government has blocked 25 Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms and related mobile applications-among them, popular names like ULLU and ALTT (formerly ALTBalaji)-for allegedly distributing obscene, vulgar, and pornographic content. This crackdown, executed by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), underscores the growing government scrutiny over digital platforms and their obligations to uphold Indian laws and social norms.
Why Were These OTT Platforms Blocked?
Authorities found the banned OTT platforms in “serious violation” of multiple Indian laws governing digital content. The platforms reportedly streamed videos and web series laden with sexual innuendos, nudity, and long scenes of sexually explicit acts that were described as pornographic in nature. Many of these series were considered devoid of meaningful storylines or social messages, focusing instead on salacious visuals intended primarily to augment viewership.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting coordinated with other government departments and experts-including those from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry for Women and Child Development, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, and industry bodies-to assess the severity of the violation before acting.
Legal Grounds for the Ban:
The platforms were found to be in violation of several Indian laws, including:
- Section 67 and 67A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 (related to publishing or transmitting obscene material and sexually explicit acts).
- Section 4 of the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986.
- Section 294 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (similar to previous Section 292 of the IPC, relating to obscene acts and songs).
Upon notice, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) were directed to block public access to the specified platforms’ websites and mobile apps. The government emphasized that digital intermediaries must act promptly against unlawful content once notified or risk losing their legal immunity.
List of OTT Platforms Banned:
Here is the complete list of OTT platforms and apps blocked in this crackdown:
- ALTT (formerly ALTBalaji)
- ULLU
- Big Shots App
- Desiflix
- Boomex
- NeonX VIP
- Navarasa Lite
- Gulab App
- Kangan App
- Bull App
- Jalva App
- ShowHit
- Wow Entertainment
- Look Entertainment
- Hitprime
- Fugi
- Feneo
- ShowX
- Sol Talkies
- Adda TV
- HotX VIP
- Hulchul App
- MoodX
- Triflicks
- Mojflix
In total, 26 websites and 14 mobile apps (including 9 on Google Play Store and 5 on Apple App Store) linked to these platforms have been blocked.
Repeated Warnings & Regulatory Evasion:
This crackdown followed repeated advisories and warnings issued to the OTT platforms over the past year, including direct notices in September 2024 and an advisory in February 2025 reminding them to adhere to the Code of Ethics outlined under the IT Rules 2021. Despite efforts by some platforms-such as temporarily removing or editing explicit content—many were found to later re-upload or republish the same objectionable materials, intentionally circumventing the directives.
Self-regulatory bodies like the Digital Publisher Content Grievances Council (DPCGC) and the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) had earlier flagged content on ULLU and ALTT. Over 100 web series were removed from ULLU, but authorities discovered that the platform continued to reintroduce similar content.
Public and Legal Backlash:
The ban also comes after public outrage over certain web series and increased pressure from members of parliament and rights bodies. Notably, Ekta Kapoor’s ALTBalaji was the subject of legal action under the POCSO Act for allegedly depicting inappropriate scenes involving minors. The Supreme Court recently urged the government to consider legislative action to control the streaming of sexually explicit content on OTT platforms, following several Public Interest Litigations.
Broader Implications and Government’s Message:
Information & Broadcasting Minister Anurag Singh Thakur reiterated that while creative expression is valued, platforms must not propagate obscenity or vulgarity under its guise. This enforcement signals a shift toward stricter digital content regulation and puts the onus on streaming services to act responsibly and comply with Indian law.
Conclusion:
The government’s blocking of 25 OTT platforms in July 2025 marks one of the country’s most extensive crackdowns on online content deemed explicit or obscene. It highlights the tightening regulatory framework around India’s fast-evolving digital landscape, urging platforms to align with statutory norms and societal values or face serious consequences.
